a Matruschka doll of inside jokes

“Art Basel can be read as a Matruschka doll of inside jokes—on the inside, authorities and newcomers locked in a perpetual accusation of nihilism; on the outside, a cryptically silly facade. The aura of exclusion - the gated lounges, the endless line of black BMWs, and the backdrop of raucous invite-only parties - suggests to the casual fairgoer that the art itself is part of an elaborate set, and she is a duped extra.” - Mostafa Heddaya (via)